Dr. Vandana Khullar says, “A pricking sensation followed by pain, redness and watering in the eye.” This is what most of us experience, and it is the most uncomfortable sensation. But, these symptoms are for minor injuries, unlike when a splinter of wood enters the eye. This needs immediate medical attention.

What to do when a foreign body enters the eye?

“Wash the eye with copious amounts of tap water to remove the foreign body. If it is superficial, it will be washed away.”

This tip also works for smokers, when cigarette flakes enter the eye. Wash the eye, to clear and soothe it.

What to do when a foreign body enters the eye?

The ophthalmologist adds, “If the eye continues to hurt it would be best to put on an eye patch and seek the opinion of an ophthalmologist. As it could be possible that the foreign body may have gotten embedded in the eye and would need to be removed under local anaesthesia.”

What not to do when a foreign body enters the eye, Dr. Vandana Khullar gives us pointers:

Do not rub the eye

Do not try to remove the foreign body on your own, as it can get embedded further into the eye. The eye structure at which the foreign body lies is important, as it can affect vision.

What not to do when a foreign body enters the eye, Dr. Vandana Khullar continues to explain:

Do not use over the counter eye drops.

Do not wash the eye at home with any other solution except plain tap water.